What will the impact of more nurse practitioners be on the supply of registered nurses (RNs) where we are already seeing shortages?
Growth in the number of NPs will have an impact on the number of registered nurses available. However, primary health care reform is about using limited resources more efficiently and using all health-care providers to their full potential, working in interprofessional teams. Primary care also reduces the need for health services over time, by shifting the focus from acute and episodic treatment to health promotion and illness prevention. In addition, the NP role may help retain nurses who might otherwise leave the system. Advanced practice roles such as the nurse practitioner may have strong appeal for RNs who would like to expand their scope of practice, enjoy greater autonomy in their work, or who are looking for a change.
Related Questions
- Do you employ registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nurse assistants and home health aides?
- Does the School of Medicine designate CME credit for nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants?
- Are these extended practice registered nurses or RN(EP)s the same as nurse practitioners?
